In the capital of the kingdom — or rather, in one of its lively taverns — a man could be seen sitting by the window with a glass of warm wine.
That man was Arthur Pereira, a royal observer known for his flawless memory and icy composure.
Today, however, he wasn't wearing the formal uniform of a crown servant, but simple civilian clothes. From time to time, his eyes drifted toward the door — he was clearly waiting for someone.
Royal observers carried out many duties.
Their main task was to observe and remember everything that happened around them.
If an event seemed significant, they would report it directly to the king — with no intermediaries and no delay.
They were also often invited as witnesses when important treaties were signed between nobles or even between nations, ensuring both sides upheld their agreements and couldn't later deny their signatures or forge documents.
But behind that noble façade lay another, far more dangerous purpose.
Royal observers were spies.
They gathered intelligence on neighboring kingdoms, relayed data about diplomatic negotiations and military preparations.
Only a select few within the palace itself even knew that such a secret organization existed.
Unfortunately for them, Leon Bartfort knew almost everything about the kingdom — thanks to Luxion, his all-seeing AI.
And today, he intended to use that knowledge.
"Good afternoon, Arthur. It's been a while," came a calm voice.
Arthur looked up and saw Leon approaching.
The young viscount looked as confident as ever — that familiar faint smile, neat attire, and the sharp gleam in his eyes that always carried a hint of caution behind it.
"Oh, Viscount Bartfort!" Arthur said politely, standing up and shaking the hand extended to him. "A pleasure to see you."
"The pleasure's mine," Leon replied, shaking his hand firmly but without unnecessary force. Then, lowering his voice slightly, he added:
"Let's change the setting. For the conversation I've planned, we don't need any extra ears around."
Leon's tone made Arthur frown slightly.
He immediately realized this was going to be a serious discussion. Without asking unnecessary questions, he simply nodded, left some coins and a tip on the table, and followed Leon.
They headed toward the port. At the dock stood Leon's ship — easily recognizable by its massive hull and the flag bearing the Bartfort family crest.
"No one but us will be aboard. We can speak freely there," Leon said as he climbed the gangplank.
Arthur, momentarily impressed by the ship's size and design, paused to take it in.
The vessel gave off a powerful impression — a perfect blend of elegance and military strength. But quickly refocusing, he followed his host onto the deck.
Soon they reached a spacious cabin that looked more like a cozy study than a warship's quarters: soft armchairs, an oak table, shelves filled with books, and sunlight filtering in through small portholes.
The atmosphere was surprisingly calm — only the gentle sway of the ship and the low hum of its mechanisms reminded them where they were.
Leon sat down first and gestured for his guest to do the same.
"So, Arthur," he began, "I assume you'd like to know why I called you here?"
"Of course, Viscount," the observer replied, taking a seat across from him. "What did you wish to discuss?"
Leon thought for a moment, then offered politely:
"Would you care for a drink first? Wine? Tea?"
"Thank you for the offer," Arthur said courteously, "but I'll refrain for now."
"As you wish," Leon nodded. "Then I'll at least pour myself some tea — it helps me think."
He filled his cup, added a bit of sugar, and after a few slow sips, spoke evenly:
"I'm certain that the duchy is preparing for a large-scale offensive. They're mobilizing all their forces, and this won't be just another raid — it will be far more dangerous than any of the previous ones.
If things unfold the way I suspect, our kingdom could genuinely face destruction."
Arthur froze for a brief moment.
His eyes widened slightly — even for someone accustomed to rumors and court intrigues, those words sounded alarming.
But he quickly regained his composure and replied calmly:
"Lord Leon, with all due respect…" he began, leaning forward slightly. "I am well aware of everything you've done for this country. No one would ever deny your accomplishments.
However, accusing another state of preparing for war is a very serious matter — one that anyone can claim."
He paused for a moment, met Leon's gaze directly, and continued:
"If you have evidence, I'll gladly listen to it and verify it. But if all you have are assumptions or rumors, then forgive me — I can't take it seriously. Even with minor evidence, that wouldn't be enough.
You're accusing another country of plotting a war, and with all due respect, you're still just a young viscount."
Leon listened silently, never interrupting.
He appeared perfectly calm, occasionally lifting his cup for another sip.
When Arthur finally finished, Leon narrowed his eyes slightly, set down his cup, and said quietly:
"You're absolutely right."